CBRS extended: Dezzer the Gasser by Lorraine Florido and Illustrated by John Ewing

Dezzer the Gasser by Lorraine Florido is a laugh out loud story about a baby's extreme flatulence. Yup, that's right...GAS!

When Dezzer was born his family was so happy to welcome the first boy. His 2 older sisters, mom, and dad couldn't wait to bring him home. It didn't take long for everyone to figure out that there was something very unique about Dezzer. He was a gasser!

Not your cute pooter; no he could clear a room of people and furnishings with one blast. His family loved him so, but were finding his explosions hard to ignore. Word and aroma of Dezzer's problem spread fast through the town. His family decided a vacation was what they needed. A big bad bear had other plans for them. Dezzer surprises everyone by using his pungent powers to save the day.

Dezzer the Gasser is Lorraine Florido's first children's book. She has since written a humorous chapter book titled, Hugo the Punk. The illustrator, John Ewing worked on a Walt Disney Studio creative team that produced many memorable feature films like; Sleeping Beauty, The Jungle Book, Winnie the Pooh and more. Together they have crafted an vividly hilarious story sure to tickle any child's funny bone.

An added bonus is the author generously donates a portion of book sales toward college scholarships for children of breast cancer victims and survivors. More information about Lorraine Florido and her books can be found on the Dezzer the Gasser website.

This was a cute story that takes an unpleasant bodily function to the extreme. While I was writing the review I gave the book to my kids to read. They were giggling and laughing the whole time. It is sure to be popular with kids of all ages. I know some adults who would get a laugh out of it too.

If you have read Dezzer the Gasser or plan to please stop back and share your opinion of it.

Thanks,

~ Kristin : )

Casey and Bella Go Green by Jane Lovascio & Autumn Varca

I have talked about these cute pups a lot. They are two of my daughter's favorite characters. She loves the books and was able to meet the real Casey and Bella, along with Jane Lovascio at this year's BEA09 in New York City. That's not the only reason I love sharing these books with everyone. This series and yearly writing contests that author Jane Lovascio offers to children also makes them conversation worthy. If you missed my previous reviews and contest news you can find them through the following links.

Casey and Bella reviews

Casey and Bella Writing Contest

Casey and Bella are at it again! This time their adventures are even more special because this is the first book to come out of the Casey and Bella Writing Contest. That's right, this book was co-authored by 10 year old, Autumn Varca. Jane not only welcomed Autumn's help in this book, but she also included her original contest entry in the back of the book. I can imagine how exciting this is for her. Congratulations Autumn and Jane!

Now to the book.

The playful pups find a new adventure and new friends in Casey and Bella Go Green. They meet an environment friendly mouse named Melvin. While helping him take out the trash they run into a group of animals who all belong to a group called KONC, which stands for Keep Our Neighborhoods Clean. Co-author Autumn introduces readers to her own pets. Spaz, her tabby cat, and her boxer Rocky are members of KONC. The group takes Casey and Bella to a recycling center to show how glass, plastic and paper is recycled and how it benefits the earth and all of us.

Casey and Bella Go Green is a great story to introduce recycling to children and it lists different ways to conserve energy and water. It sends the message that even the small things each person does can help to make the future brighter and cleaner for everyone.

As always, Jane takes her role in the communtiy seriously and dedicates this book to Autism Speaks. For more information about the books, Jane Lovascio or the Casey and Bella Writing Contest go to http://www.caseyandbella.com/ .

The Casey and Bella Writing contest is open to all 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students and ends April 15, 2010. I have encouraged the librarian at my children's school to bring this creative contest to the whole school. It's a fun way to get kids actively involved in reading and writing.

I would love to know if you decide to have your children or school enter.

Thanks for stopping by,

~ Kristin : )

CBRS: The Pink Locker Society by Debra Moffitt

Attention parents, caregivers, school teachers, and counselors: Are you looking for a book that helps preteens and tweens understand and deal with physical and emotional changes? One that looks at the time in a child's life before they are exposed to sexual activity and substance abuse issues? If your answer is yes, The Pink Locker Society is for you!

The Pink Locker Society (also known as PLS) by Debra Moffitt is a story about 4 girls, (Kate, Jemma, Piper, And Bet) who are chosen as new members of a secret society. They are expected to help other girls by answering their questions about changing feelings and body issues. Most of the questions involve the common things on most girls' minds; the PBBs (Periods, Boys, Bras). The problem the girls encounter is, how do they help other girls with issues that they are just learning about themselves?

In order to provide the best and most accurate information they research every topic they are asked about and are surprised with how much they learn along the way. But this book covers much more than body changes and first crushes. There are also important lessons about friendships and Internet scams.

The Pink Locker Society by Debra Moffitt was inspired by actual questions asked by tween and teens on a website with the same name.

http://pinklockersociety.org/

This website was developed by the creators of http://kidshealth.org/ to provide a safe haven for kids to feel comfortable about asking questions and getting accurate and straight forward answers. It is directed at kids, but can be a great resource for parents and teachers as well. A great way to find out what your kids are concerned about and to get some ideas on how to answer if you are asked similar questions.

I finished this book with a few questions in mind and thought what a great idea it would be to ask the author on line. We are both on Twitter, so I decided why not do a TwitterView. If you are on Twitter you can view the whole interview by entering this hash tag into the SEARCH box on your Twitter home page. #TV-PLS (It stands for TwitterView-PinkLockerSociety)

Please enjoy my TwitterView with Debra Moffitt, also known as @PinkLockerSociety

KCBOOKS: Q1. Are there more adventures planned for The Pink Locker Society?

PinkLockerMom: Yes, I'm working on book 2 now. The first one was periods, bras, and boys. This one is a lot about BOYS!

PinkLockerMom: Often, they [girls] don't feel comfortable talking to their moms. For instance, they're scared to say they have a boyfriend.

KCBOOKS: Q2. What issues, other than boys, would you want to cover in future books?

PinkLockerMom: Friendships are very important.I'd like to help girls get beyond the drama & know that friendships change. It's normal.

KCBOOKS: Great point, esp. when boys get involved. Changes occur in friendships & it is normal.

PinkLockerMom: Re: Boys have questions too... Here's a blog post from a boy. 51 girls were happy to help. http://bit.ly/B0sB7

KCBOOKS: Boys on PLS website goes w/Q3. Do you think the girls [in the book] might recruit a boy to encourage more male participation? #TV-PLS

PinkLockerMom: A boy in the PLS? Not sure they'd give him full member status. But he would be a great advisor.

KCBOOKS: yes and could make a great tie in w/the girls having their first group crush & how to handle it.

PinkLockerMom: Exactly. In book 2, something just like that is brewing up!

KCBOOKS: oooo...we just got a sneak peak! Can't wait to see how it's handled.

KCBOOKS: My last question involves something I worry about as a mom. Internet safety. Between child predators & scams, there are real dangers.

KCBOOKS: Q4. PLS touched on computer safety & scams. Today's tweens live in a tech world. Are there plans to cover these issues more?

PinkLockerMom: RE: Internet safety, I agree. That's why we put a subtle message in the book. Don't want to overdo bc kids will tune out.

PinkLockerMom: I think kids see the Internet/texting like we viewed the phone. It just IS. But we do need to help them be safe.

I had a lot of fun talking with Debra over Twitter. I hope to do more interviews like this in the future. I would love to hear what you think about the book, the website, and the Twitterview.

Thanks for stopping by. Keep in touch.

Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series: Hey Dad! Let's Have a Catch by Harold Theurer Jr.

Hey Dad! Let's Have a Catch by Harold Theurer Jr. and illustrated by William Baxter Bledsoe is a nonfiction children's book about a father and son.

The story is told by the son, who waits eagerly everyday for the brief time that his father is home between his day and night jobs. In this time they play catch, and for a few minutes a day the son feels all of the love, pride and bonding that will last a lifetime.

When the son gets older and has a son of his own he shares this simple game of catch with him. But there is nothing simple about the message that a few minutes of face to face interaction can create a tighter bond and more meaning memories than any thing money can buy.

Hey Dad! Let's Have a Catch is a touching story about the importance of spending time with your children, even when time is hard to find. I had the pleasure of meeting Harold Theurer Jr. at BEA09 in New York City and had him sign this book to my son. I think all parent/child relationships are very important. They have a great impact on what kind of adult and parent a child will become. But a bond between father and son can be magical, because it can be forever formed with few words a few moments a day.

More information about Hey Dad! Let's Have a Catch by Harold Theurer Jr. can be found here:

http://www.amazon.com/Hey-Dad-Lets-Have-Catch/dp/097865840X

and at the author's website:

http://www.heydadthebook.com/index.html

Do you have a favorite memory of doing something special with your dad or mom? My favorite memories were with my grandmother. She had a great love of life and took every opportunity to enjoy it. I can remember dancing with her when I was young; no rhythm just being silly. I love that now with my kids.

Feel free to share a favorite moment of yours.

Thanks,

Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series: The LadyBug and Me by Michael Soler

The LadyBug and Me by Michael Soler and illustrated by Serge Eisenberg is about a child who meets a special new friend, a LadyBug. This ladybug teaches her that anything is possible when you use your imagination and believe. Before flying away she tells the little girl something every child should know.

"Your life is a gift and has a great story to tell."

The LadyBug and Me is designed for early readers (age 4 - 8) and includes a simple question that can be used to get kids thinking and sharing ideas or even be used as a classroom writing exercise starter for older children. The question is, "What do you believe?

I always love a book that encourages children to use their imagination and reminds them that anything is possible if they believe in themselves. I also love the way the illustrator, Serge Eisenberg combines real photos with his art work. It really helps children make the connection between the worlds of reality and imagination.

More information about The LadyBug and Me by Michael Soler can be found here:

http://www.amazon.com/LadyBug-Me-Michael-Soler/dp/0979546907/

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you and your child enjoy this book. I would love to know what you believe. Leave me a comment. I have left mine below.

I borrowed this from a Whitney Houston song because it fits perfectly with this book and my own belief...

"I believe that children are the future. Teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside."

Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series: The Circus Ship by Chris Van Dusen

The Circus Ship, written and illustrated by Chris Van Dusen is an interesting story. A unique feature of this light hearted tale is it's loosely based on one of Maine's most tragic sea wrecks.

The fictional story, written in verse, will captivate young readers. It's about a ship full of circus animals that runs into thick fog and crashes off the coast of Maine.

The animals find their way to nearby island; much to the dismay of the people who live there. They wake to find elephants walking around, monkeys hanging from their clotheslines, hippos bathing in the streams, and exotic snakes peeking in their pantries.

At first the people are worried and annoyed at the chaos the new arrivals have created. Then a brave rescue of one of the children changes their minds. Just as they all begin to live happily together, the circus boss returns to bring his animals back to work. Will the people be able to rescue them? You'll have to find out.

The actual event that The Circus Ship was based on occurred in 1836. The ship, The Royal Tar, was making its voyage from New Brunswick to Maine carrying 103 passengers and an entire circus when it's engine caught on fire. Unfortunately, all of the animals did not make it to shore, but there are conflicting accounts that some had. One story said that two horses had made it to an island, another said there were reported sightings of an elephant and many have said that exotic snakes were spotted for years after the accident.

Thankfully The Circus Ship offers children a happier ending while bringing an important part of Maine's history to light. The author does a great job of adapting a true life tragedy into a lighter memorial for families to share.

The Circus Ship by Chris Van Dusen is intended for children ages 4-8 years old and makes a great book for beginner readers. The expected release date is September 22, 2009. It is on sale now and can be pre ordered on Amazon by following the link:

http://www.amazon.com/Circus-Ship-Chris-Van-Dusen/dp/076363090X

My daughter loved the story for its rhyming lines and the animals. I really enjoyed that this book was based on a historical event. It encouraged me to learn more about The Royal Tar. Any book that inspires actions after reading is sure to be a big hit with kids, parents, and teachers.

Thanks for stopping by and feel free to leave a comment.

Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series: Pingo by Brandon Mull

Pingo by Brandon Mull and illustrated by Brandon Dorman is sure to be the next best selling children's book. It is packed with creativity, imagination, and mischief. The book is geared toward children in grades K-3, but I think younger would enjoy having it read to them and it makes a great book for older children to share with siblings or school reading buddies.

Have you ever had an imaginary friend, or have you known someone who did? It still makes me smile to see a child chatting excitedly and running around an imaginary world with friends unseen to anyone else. In Pingo, Brandon Mull asks an interesting question. What happens when your imaginary friend becomes your imaginary enemy? Mull's creative humor, combined with Brandon Dorman's artistic talent, answer this question perfectly. This is the children's literacy equivalence to the classic imaginary friend gone bad movie, Drop Dead Fred.

Chad and Pingo are the best of friends. The exciting adventures they share are limitless. But when Chad thinks he is too old for an imaginary friend he finds the trouble Pingo can cause is just as limitless. This is a cute, laugh out loud story about the importance of friendship and imagination.

Pingo is not the first book the Brandons (Mull & Dorman) have worked on together. Mull is the author of the New York best selling series Fablehaven; of which Dorman also illustrated.

Pingo is not yet released, but is currently on sale and available for pre-order on Amazon. The expected release date is August 5, 2009.

http://www.amazon.com/Pingo-Brandon-Mull/dp/1606411098

Let me know if you get this book. My family loved it and know you and your children will too.

Thanks,

Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series: Hoop-la the Hippo by Patti Madison

Hoop-la the Hippo by Patti Madison and illustrated by Niki Vukadinover is a new ebook geared for young children. It has three elements sure to make it a big hit with kids; cute story, important message, and actively involves the reader.

The Story:

Hoop-la the Hippo is worried about his weight. He begins watching what he eats and exercising. Hoop-la quickly becomes obsessed with becoming thinner. One day he realizes that, although he is skinny, he is not happy and he does not feel well either.

The Message:

This is a very cute story for today's children, who are becoming more self aware much younger. It shows that while eating right and exercising help you stay healthy, too much can make you sick. Children need to learn proper nutrition and what are normal amounts of physical activity for their bodies and minds to run their best.

Active Involvement:

Children are given two options with this book; they can choose to read it themselves or have it read to them. When reading it themselves the cursor can be used to point to harder or unknown words and they will be read out loud. This is a great way to promote independence and confidence while building the reader's vocabulary. If the child chooses to have the book read to them they decide when they are ready to move on to the next page and can stop the reader at any time.

Another excellent way this book encourages involvement is by offering a quiz at the end. The child is asked to answer a few questions about the story which test their ability to comprehend and recall events and help them make more meaningful connections with the story. This aspect makes it a great addition to a classroom or home schooling environment, since mastering these skills is a building block to becoming a stronger reader.

Ebooks are becoming more popular with adults on the go. This is also a great format for children, not to replace traditional books but to enhance their reading experiences. They can be enjoyed with parents or alone if the parents are juggling other household or work responsibilities. The hands on active involvement make these ebooks feel more like a video game to young children. They will want to read the stories over and over.

You and your child can preview and purchase Hoop-la the Hippo and other popular ebooks by going to http://www.wizz-e.com .

Are your children reading ebooks already? Tell me what your family or students think of them? Let me know what you think of Hoop-la the Hippo and the other unique stories on the website.

Thanks,

Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series

City of Hamburgers by Mike Reiss and illustrated by Xeth Feinberg is sure to spark the imagination and the appetite.

It's bedtime for Jeffrey, which means it's also time for another one of Grandma Greta's stories. Jeffrey loved his grandma, but did not want to hear another story about fairies, princesses, slippers, and kisses.

A conversation about Grandma Greta's unique accent leads to a new story; the true story of her childhood in Hamburg, Germany. As she shares what life was like for her and her fellow Hamburgers, Jeffrey's imagination creates a humorous view. When she tells how she met his grandfather who was from Frankfurt, Germany, Jeffrey pictures her (a Hamburger) and him ( a Frankfurter) getting married. Now Jeffrey can not wait for Grandma Greta to tell the next "real life" story.

This is a cute book that shows two very different point of views of the same story. Children of all ages will be laughing at how Jeffrey visualizes his grandmother's story of growing up in Germany. Many adults may recognize the author Mike Reiss as the longtime writer of The Simpsons and as contributing writer for some popular children's movies; Ice Age (1 & 2), Horton Hears a Who to name a few.

For more information or to purchase City of Hamburgers by Mike Reiss please follow any of the following links.

http://www.amazon.com/City-Hamburgers-Mike-Reiss/dp/159299346X

http://www.inkwaterpress.com/

My kids and I were laughing out loud reading this book. I would love to hear what you think of it. If you have or plan to purchase City of Hamburgers tell me about it.

Thanks,

Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series: Davy Brown Discovers His Roots by Keely Alexander & Velani Mynhardt Witthoft

Davey Brown Discovers His Roots by Keely Alexander & Velani Mynhardt Witthoft and Illustrated by Manuela Pentangelo is the perfect book for parents and teachers who want to teach children the importance of our history. It sends a powerful message about understanding different backgrounds and cultures with realistic examples of what makes America the "melting pot".

Davy has been given an assignment; to create a family tree of flags showing his roots. How could he do that? He has no roots. He is simply an American, just as his parents are and their parents before them. Many of his classmates and friends have exciting adventures to share about how their families came to America. Each with many different flags representing the far away and exotic lands that they and their ancestors came from. How could he present a project with only one flag on his tree? If he doesn't finish the assignment he can not play baseball. That is not an option, since he is the star pitcher for the Ballard Vikings and the big game was coming up.

Project day comes and, as expected Davy's friends present their exciting, scary, and inspiring stories. Davy tries to make up a story, but his teacher stops him and gives him another chance to research his true history. What he finds not only amazes his classmates but surprises Davy. He learns an important lesson spoken best by Franklin D. Roosevelt, "Remember, remember always that all of us, and you and I especially, are descended from immigrants and revolutionists."

The authors did a great job of representing the diversity that is America. Davy represents the typical adolescent American; disconnected from history, unmotivated, and a little self centered. He learns not only that he has a rich history beyond his American descendants, but to also appreciate and sympathize with others.

This is a must have book for classrooms of all ages, but especially for grades 3-6 when American history, diversity, and world awareness are covered in more detail. I can't wait to take Davy Brown Discovers His Roots to the teachers I have worked with in my town.

Davy Brown Discovers His Roots can be purchased, or additional information can be found by following any of the following links.

http://www.amazon.com/Davy-Brown-Discovers-His-Roots/dp/1601310536/

http://www.bigtentbooks.com/

Autographed copies available from http://www.keelyvelani.com/

Leave me a comment if you have or plan to purchase this book. I am interested in hearing what you think.

Thanks,

Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series: Molly Monkey by John Rosano

Molly Monkey:Farmward Bound written by John Rosano and illustrated by Nathan Smith is a cute story about a monkey who is ready for a change.


Molly has lived in the jungle for three years and now is ready to move. But where does she want to go? Molly is farmward bound. This resourceful monkey calls a taxi and books her own airplane flight. On the farm, she meets her new family and animal friends.


John Rosano has created a lovable character that children and parents will love. Molly's story is told in rhyme, making it fun to read and to listen to and Molly helps the American Forests Organization. A tree will be planted in America everytime a Molly Monkey book is purchased. It looks like we will be seeing more of Molly and enjoying many new adventures.


More information about John Rosano and Molly can be found at on the Three in a Tree Publications website:

http://www.3inatree.net/


More information about American Forests Organization can be found on:

http://www.americanforests.org/


Molly Monkey was a fun book to read with my kids and fit right in with my daughter's love for everything monkey. We can't wait to see what's next.

Thanks for stopping by and, as always feel free to leave a message about what you and your children are reading.

Thanks,
Kristin : )

Children's Book Review Series: Casey and Bella by Jane Lovascio

Meet Casey and Bella, the real life stars of the adorable new children's series. They are joined by author Jane Lovascio and her husband Jeff. All attended this year's BEA in New York City, where Casey and Bella participated in a paw signing. This, as I stated in an earlier post, was my daughter's favorite part of our day at the BEA.

Now on to the books...



Casey and Bella Go To New York City
by Jane Lovascio
Illustrated by Aija Jasuna
*A portion of the proceeds from this book are donated to Loving Paws Assistance Dogs.
For more info: www.lovingpaws.com


Casey meets Bella when Jane and Jeff bring her home from a nearby shelter. They become fast friends and head out on adventure that brings them from Hoboken, New Jersey to New York City. While they explore the busy city they meet new friends and learn important lessons about having good manners and how to treat others.







Casey and Bella Go To Hollywood
by Jane Lovascio
Illustrated by Aija Jasuna
*This book was dedicated to the children of Hoboken's Jubilee Center
For more info: http://www.jubileecenterhoboken.org


Casey and Bella are off on a new adventure. This time they explore star studded Hollywood, California in search of celebrities. Along they way they meet and teach new friends that real happiness can not be bought. A cute story reinforcing the sentiment that the best things in life are still free, even in Hollywood.


I hope you have enjoyed meeting Casey and Bella. They are as cute in person (or should I say, in canine?) as they are in their books and have great messages to share with children. If you would like more information about Jane Lovascio, other Casey and Bella books, charities, contests, and fundraisers go to www.CaseyandBella.com

If you have a Casey and Bella book or are planning to purchase one I would love to hear from you. Please leave a comment below. If you have published a children's book and want to have it reviewed you can email me at dkcallender@sbcglobal.net

Thanks for stopping by,
Kristin : )

New Children's Book Review Introduction

In an effort to help out other authors in one of my on line writers/readers group, I have offered to review some children's books. Why children's books?

Two reasons:

1) I have four children of my own and love how excited they get when a new book comes (well my 9 & 11 yr. olds anyway).

2) I have worked with children for years in private preschools and now in the public schools. This means I have many contacts in the child care and education fields with whom I can share all of these great new books.

What I offer is a review, which will be posted here, on IndieReaders.ning.com , on Amazon (or on whatever platform the book is distributed from), and I will talk about it on Twitter. That much I can guarantee will happen. What I also offer, but can not guarantee, is that I will share the books I review with the librarians, teachers, and child care workers that I have worked with. This will help to get word out about new children's books and may even lead to some sales.

In a recent post I shared Jane Lovascio's books, fundraiser, and charity information. She is the author of the new canine series, Casey and Bella. I had the pleasure of meeting Jane and her real life dogs, Casey and Bella at this years BEA in New York. Reviews for her books are coming soon. While there, I also met some other authors from her publisher, Big Tent Books. I will be reviewing their books as well. Looks like I will be busy for a while, but it's a good kind of busy.

With that said, let's start. Feel free to leave a comment about the books, especially if you have read it and want to share your thoughts.

Thanks,
Kristin :)

Where are Bella and Casey Going Next? To the BEA in NYC!

The 2009 Book Expo America is in New York City. It will run May 28th through May 31st in the Jacob Javits Center. This is my first BEA and I am getting excited. I will be attending as a blogger and an author. As a blogger I was asked if I wanted to list myself in the BEA press category. I said sure, why not? That was back in February. Lately I have been getting so many emails from different publishers and publicists that it's been hard to keep up with all that is going on. Many of the emails have been to invite me to after hours cocktails with authors and other writing professionals. Others have been invitations to visit the different booths and events during the weekend. I have been setting up a schedule and choosing the booths and events that are of interest to me. This is how I came across a new children's book author, thanks to Dori at MTL Communications. She is not only the author of a new, adorable children's book series, but also a very generous person.

There are many, many children's books out today. What makes the Casey and Bella series stand out are four important things; the book is personal, it includes children with a motivational contest, it contributes to education by offering a fundraiser, and it gives back to the community by donating to charities.

What makes the book personal? The characters are based on the author's two dogs. Casey is a Jack Russell Terrier and Bella a Tea Cup Yorkie. These two lovable pups find adventure, friends, and learn life lessons every where they go. The question is, where do Casey and Bella go next?

Jane Lovascio visits many schools, reading her books and asking children where they think Casey and Bella should go next. She received so many creative answers that she decided to start a contest. It is open to all 3rd and 4th graders. This year's winner has been announced, but the next contest is scheduled to begin in September and 4 finalists will be chosen in April of 2010. One winner out of the 4 finalists will receive credit in book as the co-author, a $500.00 cash prize, a plaque, certificate, and the author will visit the student's school to personally award these exciting prizes. So, kids get your pencils out and start writing your 400 word idea and make sure it tells where Casey and Bella go, who they meet, and what life lessons they meet along the way. In the newest book Casey and Bella Go Green thanks to 4th grader author, Autumn.

Here's another way to bring Casey and Bella to your school. Have a fundraiser with them. Your school will receive books and t shirts of these lovable characters. Each one sold will help raise money for your school's activities and expenses. As a mom, I love this idea. I am bored of the catalogs filled with over priced wrapping paper and trinkets and honestly don't need any more baked goods. Schools get the books and t shirts for an incredible discount and there are many options to choose from.

Casey and Bella Go to New York City retails for $15.95 and Casey and Bella Go to Hollywood retails for $14.95. Both are only $8.00 for schools and the character t shirts are only $7.00. The suggested resale price is $13.00 for the books and $9.00 for the shirts. This is a great deal for parents and the schools. Most of the current fundraisers do not bring in as much of a profit as this, and all unsold books are returnable.

All of the above reasons show the author's generosity and willingness to share with children and schools, but then she goes even further. A portion of the proceeds are always donated to nonprofit charities that either benefit children or animals. Her latest book will donate to Autism Speaks, which is dedicated to increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders.

For any of you planning to attend Book Expo America in NYC next week, you can meet the author, Jane Lovascio. She will be at Booth #708 all weekend. On Friday May 29th, you can meet the real life characters, Casey and Bell. They will be doing paw signings at 11:00 AM.

For more information about Casey and Bella, Jane Lovascio, the contest, fundraiser and charities you can follow the link.

http://www.caseyandbella.com/

For more information about all of the events at Book Expo America go to their home page.

http://bookexpoamerica.com

Now for a personal note:

As an author and a mom I love finding other authors and books that not only entertain, but inspire us all to do a little more than is expected. I am inspired by Jane Lovascio's books, contest, fundraiser, and especially her support of nonprofit charities. In fact, I am going to look into donating a portion of my book sales to one myself. I am thinking Amber Alert or another missing children's network since my book includes some missing children among other issues. Although my story is fictional and has a happy ending, my heart breaks for those parents who are faced with the real life devastation of a missing child.

I hope that everyone is inspired to go out and find something they believe in and support it. Support doesn't always have to mean money it can be shown with giving your time and encouragement also.

Thanks so much for stopping by and keep in touch.

Kristin : )

A Couple of New Ideas...

I have been very busy since the call came from the producer, talking with literary agents and making plans for my trip to Book Expo America in New York at the end of the month. But I did want to let everyone know what else I am doing. As always I have a million things going on at once. Hopefully these things will be helpful to you new authors out there.

First, I have mentioned in the past that I joined a new writers/readers network called Indie Readers. If you haven't already, stop by and join. There are a lot of nice people there and many great tips and opportunities for authors to help each other. I have just started a new group within the network called Amazon Authors. This is very similar to Todd Fonseca's Tag My Book onAmazon blog, but on a much smaller scale. If you are interested in adding your Amazon titles to our group to be tagged, I would suggest that you also post it on Todd's. The more you get your work out there the more chances you have to get more readers. If your not sure what tagging is please stop by either of the following addresses for an explanation.

http://indiereaders.ning.com/group/amazonauthors

http://tagmybookonamazon.wordpress.com/

I have been fortunate to meet many writers and authors, both on line and off. I am very thankful to have all of the opportunities that writing and publishing has given me and love to help other writers when ever I can. That was the main reason for starting this blog; to share my experiences and pass along what I have and continue to learn about the whole publishing process. Lately I have been meeting some new author's of children's books. Having 4 children of my own, and being a substitute teacher in a large town with 9 elementary schools, I offered to ask how these 9 different librarians ordered their books. I was given the name and contact info for the man who orders the books for all of our schools. That brings the number of school libraries up to 12. This led me to my second idea.

I thought what a great idea if I take copies of these new children's books along with their purchase info to the man in charge of ordering. He would be able to sample them and then decide if he's interested in buying them for the libraries. I have contacted him about this and will let everyone know the outcome of that as soon as I hear anything. In the mean time, I will offer any children's author a review, which I will post here, on Goodreads, and on Amazon. Not bad exposure for the price of postage and 1 copy of your book. Most of us have a few copies hanging around the house anyway.

In the event that your book is chosen as one to be purchased for all of our town's libraries I will offer the copy you send me as a free bonus to them. If your book is not chosen I will offer it on my contest blog. We all love a giveaway and it helps get your book out there to more readers. Tell me what you think about this idea, and if you're interested in participating email me and I will give you the address of where to send a copy of your book.

dkcallender@sbcglobal.net

As always, keep writing and keep in touch. If you have any ideas on how we can help each other pass them along.

Thanks,
Kristin :)